Safe & Sensible Sun Tips
Be sun smart and enjoy more of the great outdoors.
Too much of a good thing can be bad for us, and this is definitely true when it comes to spending time in the sun. We all need some sun. Our bodies need sunlight to make vitamin D, and spending time outdoors is one of the healthiest, best therapies around.
As we all know by now, prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays can be harmful and even life threatening if done to excess. Without the use of sun sense and sunscreen it has a cumulative effect over the years and can lead to premature aging of the skin and a risk of skin cancer.
With a little common sense and some good quality sun care products, you can avoid the negative effects of the sun.
Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun
The power of the sun is most intense between the hours of 10 AM and 3 PM, so try to plan outdoor activites around these hours, or make sure you’re covered with hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. And don’t be fooled by cloudy skies! Ultraviolet rays, the ones that do damage, go right through clouds, so you can get sunburned even on overcast days. And water, snow and sand are reflective, bouncing UV rays up to burn you on your nose, as well as on top of it.
Use a good sunscreen product
The FDA requires the labels of all sunscreen and sunblock products to state the product’s sun protection factor, or “SPF”, from 2 on up. The higher the number, the longer a person can stay in the sun before burning. Use products with an SPF of at least 15, and apply liberally on all exposed skin, (including lips, nose, ears, neck, scalp (if hair is thinning), hands and feet ) before going outside. And remember to reapply after swimming or excessive sweating.
NOTE - Sunscreens should not be used on babies younger than 6 months. Instead, use hats, clothing and shading to protect small babies from the sun. If you think your baby may need a sunscreen, check with your pediatrician. For children 6 months to 2 years, use specially formulated chemical-free sunscreens with an SPF of at least 15.
Wear a hat
Your best bet is a hat with at least a 3-inch brim all around, as it will shade the areas most likely to burn. - your face, neck, ears, eyes, and scalp.
Wear sunglasses
A quality pair of sunglasses can help protect your eyes from sun damage. Cheap, poor quality sun glasses can actually do more damage than good, so spend a little extra and take care of your eyes!
Be aware of photosensitivity
Ask your doctor about the photosensitivty risk of any medicines you may be taking. Some drug chemicals can produce potentially damaging effects when combined with sunlight.